DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan Police Lt. Lacy Watkins has graduated from the FBI National Academy, completing one of the most selective law enforcement training programs in the country.
Police Chief William E. Benny announced that Watkins was part of the Academy’s 296th session, which held its graduation ceremony on Dec. 11, 2025, at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Watkins is just the second female officer in Dothan Police Department history to complete the program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of law enforcement officers are selected to attend.
The FBI National Academy is internationally recognized for its academic rigor, offering 11 weeks of advanced instruction focused on leadership, communication, and physical fitness. Participants are required to have demonstrated professional excellence within their agencies before being accepted. On average, officers attending the academy have about 21 years of law enforcement experience and often return to their departments to serve in executive-level roles.
The 296th session included 254 graduates representing 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class also featured law enforcement professionals from 24 countries, along with representatives from four military organizations and two federal civilian agencies.
“I am proud that Lt. Watkins was selected to attend the FBI National Academy’s 296th session. Lt. Watkins has proven herself with her professionalism and leadership within the Dothan Police Department. Lt. Watkins joins the group of FBI National Academy Alumni that continue to provide valuable leadership and experience to the Dothan Police Department,” Chief Benny said.
Lt. Watkins currently serves as division commander of the Professional Standards Division. She began her career with the Dothan Police Department in August 2011 and advanced through the ranks, serving in both the Patrol Division and as a criminal investigator. She was promoted to lieutenant in October 2023.
Training at the National Academy is conducted by FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and staff members who hold advanced degrees, many of whom are internationally recognized in their fields. Since 1972, academy participants have also been eligible to earn undergraduate and graduate college credits through the University of Virginia, which accredits all National Academy courses.
Since its founding in 1935, a total of 56,688 law enforcement officers have graduated from the FBI National Academy. The program is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where new FBI special agents and intelligence analysts are trained.